The Dzong Conservation Project is entirely funded by the government
Lhakpa Quendren
Zhemgang—The restoration of Zhemgang Dzong will begin in the second fiscal year of the 13th Plan, with a budget of Nu 325 million allocated for the project.
The Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development (DCDD) has completed the detailed project report (DPR).
Funded entirely by the Royal Government of Bhutan, the project is among eight major conservation initiatives outlined in the current plan. The redevelopment will be executed in multiple stages and is expected to conclude by the end of the 13th Plan.
Preliminary work, including a topographical survey and a structural assessment of the dzong’s buildings, has already been completed.
Chief Architect Yeshi Samdrup of the Heritage Sites and Archaeology Division, DCDD confirmed that the conservation plan for the central tower (Utse) was developed in-house, while designs for surrounding structures will be outsourced to private consultants.
The conservation plan involves the complete renovation of all structures within the dzong.
“The Utse is the oldest structure of the Dzong with a unique typology, as it was originally used as a palace and therefore holds cultural heritage value,” said Yeshi Samdrup.
However, the Utse has deteriorated over time, with weakened load-bearing walls showing uneven bulging, depressions in certain parts, and minor cracks visible from the inside.
In addition, termite infestations have weakened key wooden components, including the rabsey, payab, roof trusses, and floor joists, necessitating urgent restoration.
While the renovation will preserve the dzong’s traditional aesthetic, modern elements will be incorporated to enhance its functionality. Plans include the addition of office cubicles, improved sanitation facilities on each floor, and a central heating system.
“The renovation will not compromise the traditional facade of the structures. For the renovation works, retrofitting and the introduction of lintel bands to strengthen the structure are being explored,” said Yeshi Samdrup.
The current DPR replaces an earlier version submitted a decade ago, which was ultimately scrapped in favour of a more comprehensive and strategic approach. The new plan, finalised in 2021, takes a broader view of all existing structures rather than merely expanding them based on immediate needs.
The plan to renovate the dzong has been in the pipeline since the 11th Plan. However, it was not included in the 12th Plan despite repeated proposals from the Dzongkhag Tshogdu.
Zhemgang Dzong was damaged by an earthquake in 1997. In May 2020, a windstorm blew off half the roof of the monastic residence. It took three days for the Desuung and local administration to restore the damage.
As the restoration begins, a temporary relocation site has been identified at the current Moenlam Chhenmo ground to house the dzongkhag administration and monastic community. Temporary structures with essential amenities will be set up to ensure uninterrupted public services during the redevelopment process.
Zhemgang Dzong’s history dates back to 1655, when an initial single-storey structure was built before expanding into its current form. The site is closely linked to the legacy of Lama Zhang Dorji Drakpa, a 12th-century figure who established a hermitage at the location.